Top 5 Last Minute Christmas Gifts

Every year you swear that next year you will make sure to get all your Christmas shopping done on time. No more running through the department store picking up the scraps that everyone else has left behind. And just like last year, there you are looking around for last minute Christmas gifts. This list should help you out with some creative solutions while you try to get that last minute Christmas gift this year.

1. Online shopping.

This can greatly reduce the time spent running from store to store trying to find something. This can save you time and money. While many stores may be out of stock, most online stores will have just what you need and many times will have free shipping. Make sure you do your research, it can save you hundreds of dollars if done right. Look for free shipping, and next day air. Also when you find what you are looking for, do one more search for coupons for that product. For last minute Christmas gift shoppers this is the best place to start.

2. Gift Cards

A gift card may be the greatest invention in the history of the world. Okay maybe not but it is in the top 10 in my book. These can be perfect for someone that you have no idea what to get or what size is right. If you know what place they like to shop in then the gift card will always be the right size. For last minute Christmas gift shoppers this is a great idea. The person will get what they want and can shop anytime they want.

3. Cash

Money is a good gift idea for kids, collage students are always in a need for extra money. All you need to do is run out to the local super market and pick up a nice card and toss in some money. Make sure you add a nice personal greeting and you are all set. You can add a note to the recipient to make sure they use the money for something fun. This is also good for children, they can be very hard to shop for even when you have plenty of time. Toys go in an out of style so fast it's hard to keep track of them all. A child's face will light up when they see that they have money to get whatever they want the next time they go to the store.

4. Homemade Gifts

Making something to give as a gift is another terrific last minute Christmas gift idea. If you know how to bake, you can make cookies, cakes, or chocolates to give out to anyone. Do you paint? Paint a nice holiday theme picture and get a nice frame. You can knit scarves or hats if you have that skill. Anything that you are good at can make a really nice thoughtful gifts.

5. Potluck

This one is last because it actually takes time to think ahead. And if you did that then you would not need a list of last minute Christmas gifts. But, if you take the time throughout the year and pick up small things while you are out shopping and place them in a box. You will end up with a good amount of gifts to pick from when you are ready to start shopping. Most people during the year will see something that you think would be a nice gift for someone and just move along. Pick it up and have it on hand.

Another option is to stock up on small presents throughout the year. Maintaining a treasure chest of last minute presents in storage can eliminate the last minute gift giving problem. Get an assortment of useful, peculiar, or fun items to give out, and keep a stock of wrapping paper on hand as well.

At Christmas, it is the thought behind the present which counts. A thoughtful card, offer of flowers, or another similar gesture can make a big impression on a recipient. When looking for a last minute Christmas gift, think about your connection with the recipient, and what kind of presents would delight him or her and deepen your relationship.